Changing Minds & Changing Lives Podcast

Julie Sowash
  • 4.0 (1)
  • Non-Profit
  • Updated Monthly

Julie Sowash of Disability Solutions talks with clients, friends, influencers, and advocates from the disability community to discuss the complexities, difficulties, and successes of disability employment.  In this honest and very human podcast, we analyze and dissect workplace trends, government policies, biases, and more, shedding light on disability inclusion and the people who are changing minds and changing lives. 

  1. Closing the Gaps in Chronic Illness Support with Cyndii Sinex

    May 28 ·  Video

    Closing the Gaps in Chronic Illness Support with Cyndii Sinex

    Chronic illness affects millions of people worldwide, yet support systems remain fragmented, difficult to navigate, and often inaccessible. For many, the journey is not just medical but also deeply isolating. In this episode of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, Julie Sowash sits down with Cyndii Sinex, public health practitioner and founder of the upcoming Chronic Illness Hotline, to explore how lived experience can drive meaningful change. After more than a decade navigating misdiagnosis, medical error, and systemic barriers, Cyndii is transforming her experience into a first-of-its-kind solution: a free, text-based, peer-support hotline designed for people living with chronic illness, pain, injury, and neurodivergence. This conversation is both eye-opening and hopeful—offering a powerful reminder that support doesn’t have to be complicated to be life-changing. Key Takeaways Why so many chronic illness sufferers fall through the cracks of the medical system The emotional toll of chronic illness—including isolation, loss, and uncertainty How peer support can fill critical gaps in care What it takes to build a scalable, accessible support network The long-term vision: using real data to influence healthcare policy and systemic changeResources & Links Chronic Illness Hotline - https://chronicillnesshotline.org/ Support the Mission - https://chronicillnesshotline.org/donate/About the GuestCyndii Sinex, MPH, is a public health practitioner, trained health educator, and patient advocate. After years of navigating a misdiagnosis and complex healthcare barriers, she founded the Chronic Illness Hotline—an initiative designed to provide accessible, peer-based emotional support for individuals living with chronic illness and related conditions.  Follow her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyndii/ | https://www.linkedin.com/company/chronic-illness-hotline/ About the HostJulie Sowash is a strategic advisor, disability inclusion leader, and co‑founder of Disability Solutions. She is the CEO of Catch 22 Group and is the Job Board Doctor. Follow Her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliesowash/

    22 min
  2. Leading with Authenticity: Megan Fuciarelli on Trust, Disability Inclusion, and Workplace Culture

    May 21 ·  Video

    Leading with Authenticity: Megan Fuciarelli on Trust, Disability Inclusion, and Workplace Culture

    What does authentic leadership actually look like, and why does it matter more than ever for disability inclusion at work? In this episode of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, host Julie Sowash is joined by Megan Fuciarelli, Founder & Chief Empowerment Officer of US2 Consulting, to unpack one of the biggest workplace challenges in 2026: the growing gap between what employers say and what employees experience. Drawing on recent disability employment data and real-world examples—from federal accommodation policy rollbacks to employer lawsuits and shifting DEI commitments—this conversation explores why trust is breaking down in the workplace and what leaders can do to rebuild it. Show Notes: Key Takeaways Why only a small percentage of disabled professionals trust employer commitment How DEI rollbacks and “quiet retreats” impact psychological safety What authentic leadership really looks like in practice How to have difficult conversations about disability, identity, and inclusion Why curiosity is the key to better leadership The role of accountability, data tracking, and transparency in rebuilding trustThis episode is a must-listen for HR leaders, recruiters, executives, and anyone committed to building more inclusive, equitable workplaces. Resources & Links Learn more about US2 Consulting: https://www.us2consulting.com Connect with Megan Fuciarelli on LinkedIn Explore more episodes: https://www.changingmindsandlives.org/About the Guest Megan Fuciarelli is the Founder and Chief Empowerment Officer of US2 Consulting, a former school superintendent-turned-leadership consultant, and the creator of the “Authenticity Amplifier” framework. She works with organizations to build trust through ethical, values-driven leadership, focusing on authenticity, inclusive leadership, difficult conversations, and workplace culture. Megan also brings lived experience as a professional with a disability, which informs her perspective and approach to creating more inclusive and empowering workplaces. About the HostJulie Sowash is a strategic advisor, disability inclusion leader, and co‑founder of Disability Solutions. She is the CEO of Catch 22 Group and is the Job Board Doctor.

    35 min
  3. Rethinking Disability Hiring: Bias, Barriers, and AI — with Myles Wallace of Peak Performers

    Apr 30 ·  Video

    Rethinking Disability Hiring: Bias, Barriers, and AI — with Myles Wallace of Peak Performers

    In this episode of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, host Julie Sowash sits down with Myles Wallace, Disability Inclusion Partner at Peak Performers, to unpack what disability hiring really looks like in 2026. From outdated job descriptions and biased resume screening to interviews that unintentionally exclude neurodivergent and disabled candidates, Myles shares where employers continue to get it wrong—and what meaningful inclusion actually requires. The conversation also dives into the growing role of AI in hiring, exploring both its promise as an accessibility tool and its risks when bias is automated at scale. Drawing on lived experience, employer advising, and years in disability staffing, Myles offers practical insight for organizations that want to move beyond performative inclusion and build hiring processes that work for people. Show NotesIn this episode, we cover: Myles Wallace’s disability and career journey—and how lived experience shapes inclusive hiring What Peak Performers does and how revenue‑funded disability staffing works Why disability unemployment remains stubbornly high despite years of “progress” Where employers unintentionally exclude disabled candidates before interviews even begin How job descriptions, resume gaps, and “job hopping” bias limit access to opportunity Why traditional interviews often disadvantage neurodivergent and disabled professionals Practical, low‑cost interview accommodations employers can implement today The real impact of AI screening tools on candidates with disabilities Where AI can improve access—and where it risks reinforcing discrimination Why human accountability still matters in automated hiring systems What employers must do now to build inclusive, future‑ready hiring processesGuest:Myles Wallace, Disability Inclusion Partner, Peak Performers Host:Julie Sowash Learn more about Peak Performers and available roles at: peakperformers.org

    38 min
  4. Breaking the Charity Mindset: Disability, Authentic Branding & Inclusive Employment with Davina Douthard

    Mar 12 ·  Video

    Breaking the Charity Mindset: Disability, Authentic Branding & Inclusive Employment with Davina Douthard

    In this episode of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, host Julie Sowash sits down with Davina Douthard—founder of Polishing the Professional and creator of The Able Show—to challenge one of the most persistent barriers in disability employment: the charity mindset. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in image management, workforce development, and inclusive entertainment, Davina shares powerful insights on authentic personal branding, transferable skills, and why disability inclusion must move beyond quotas and good intentions. Together, Julie and Davina explore how job seekers with disabilities can build careers rooted in confidence and capability—and how employers can create inclusive brands without reinforcing harmful stereotypes. This conversation is a must‑listen for disabled professionals, employers, and advocates committed to building workplaces that value contribution over charity. Show Notes: Key Takeaways Disability inclusion is not about favors—it’s about filling real business needs Quotas and check-the-box hiring can unintentionally reinforce exclusion Authentic branding empowers disabled professionals to lead with their strengths Employers don’t need perfection—just a willingness to learn and listen True inclusion happens when we focus on what people can do, not what they can’tChanging Minds & Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions, a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies. About the GuestDavina Douthard is a nationally recognized leader in image management, disability employment advocacy, and inclusive media. She is the founder of Polishing the Professional, a full‑service career center supporting disabled and non‑disabled job seekers, and the creator and executive producer of The Able Show, a groundbreaking series where people with disabilities fill the majority of on‑ and off‑camera roles.About the HostJulie Sowash is a strategic advisor, disability inclusion leader, and co‑founder of Disability Solutions. She is the CEO of Catch 22 Group and is the Job Board Doctor.Resources & Mentions Disability Solutions Quarterly Webinar: Rethinking Design for Neurodiversity (April 2, 2026) Grant Harris, Certified Diversity Executive

    32 min
  5. Building Dateability: Redefining Disability Dating & Inclusive Apps

    Jan 29 ·  Video

    Building Dateability: Redefining Disability Dating & Inclusive Apps

    In this powerful Season 3 kickoff of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, host Julie Sowash sits down with sisters and co‑founders of Dateability, Jacqueline and Alexa Child, to explore how lived experience, legal insight, and pure sister‑energy transformed a shared frustration into the world’s leading dating app for disabled and chronically ill people. From navigating ableism on mainstream dating platforms to building an inclusive alternative from scratch—with no tech background and plenty of obstacles along the way—Jacqueline and Alexa share the emotional, logistical, and deeply human story behind Dateability’s creation. Listeners will hear about the app’s innovative features, the importance of safe and normalized disclosure, the role of disability‑centered community in dating, and the real‑life love stories proving the platform’s impact, including Dateability’s first wedding. The episode also dives into safety, funding challenges, press wins, and the sisters’ unwavering commitment to building a space where disabled people can date with dignity, joy, and authenticity. Show Notes:  Key Topics:  The Origin Story Building the App What Makes Dateability Different Safety & Privacy User Feedback, Community Growth & Impact Accessibility, Pricing & How to Join For Investors & PartnersChanging Minds & Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions, a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies. Guests Jacqueline Child – Co‑founder of Dateability, disability advocate, entrepreneur Alexa Child – Co‑founder of Dateability, attorney, problem‑solver, big‑sister‑in‑chiefLearn more about the app and accessibility and safety features  - https://info.dateabilityapp.com/

    36 min
  6. CMCL - AI, Accessibility, and the Future of Work: Insights from Disability Solutions

    12/16/2025 ·  Video

    CMCL - AI, Accessibility, and the Future of Work: Insights from Disability Solutions

    Join us for a special year-end episode of "Changing Minds, Changing Lives" as host Julie Sowash sits down with Keith Meadows, Executive Director of Disability Solutions, for an honest and insightful conversation about the future of disability employment. Keith shares his journey from restaurant management to leading a national nonprofit, revealing how customer service skills and operational know-how translate into driving real change for job seekers with disabilities. Discover how Disability Solutions has evolved from a scrappy consulting startup to a scalable, data-driven organization helping employers optimize their hiring processes and create truly inclusive workplaces. Keith and Julie discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the disability community in 2025, including the impact of AI on hiring, the importance of accessible remote work, and why companies committed to disability inclusion are gaining a competitive edge. Whether you're an HR leader, a job seeker, or simply passionate about building a more equitable workforce, this episode offers practical takeaways, inspiring stories, and a look ahead to brighter skies in 2026. Tune in for actionable insights, candid reflections, and a celebration of the progress made—and the work still to come—in changing minds and changing lives. Key Topics: Keith Meadows’ leadership journey and lessons from restaurant management Scaling Disability Solutions for greater impact and accessibility The evolving job market: AI, automation, and disability inclusion Practical strategies for employers to optimize disability hiring The importance of remote work and accessible workplaces Navigating economic uncertainty and planning for 2026 Building trust and competitive advantage through authentic inclusionFollow Disability Solutions on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more resources and updates. Notes:  Keith Meadows is the Executive Director of Disability Solutions, where he leads efforts to help employers build inclusive workplaces and tap into the $13 trillion disability economy. With over a decade of experience in disability employment and a background in operations and customer service, Keith specializes in practical, data-driven strategies for accessible hiring and retention. He is a passionate advocate for disability rights and regularly shares insights on workplace inclusion, mentorship, and the business impact of accessibility.

    41 min
  7. CMCL - When HR Loses Its Way: DEI, SHRM, and the Future of Work with Tara Turk-Haynes

    11/05/2025 ·  Video

    CMCL - When HR Loses Its Way: DEI, SHRM, and the Future of Work with Tara Turk-Haynes

    In this episode of Changing Minds and Changing Lives, host Julie Sowash, CEO of Catch 22 Group and the Job Board Doctor, and founder of Disability Solutions, sits down with Tara Turk-Haynes — strategist, storyteller, equity activator, and founding member of Hacking HR — for a candid, no-nonsense conversation about the state of DEI in today’s workplaces and the growing controversy surrounding SHRM’s shift away from diversity, equity, and inclusion. Together, Julie and Tara unpack how SHRM’s recent decisions — including its rebranding of DEI, the leadership of CEO Johnny C. Taylor, and the 2025 SHRM Blueprint Conference featuring keynote panelists Van Jones and Robby Starbuck — signal deeper issues about values, leadership, and the future of human resources. Tara shares her personal journey from administrative assistant to executive leader, the lessons she’s learned about data-driven inclusion, and why equity — not just diversity or inclusion — is what truly transforms workplaces. The two also discuss how performative allyship, “chameleon leadership,” and the erosion of worker-centered advocacy threaten progress, and what individuals can do to push back. If you care about the future of work, human-centered leadership, and how organizations can uphold equity even in a polarized environment, this is a must-listen conversation. ✨ Key Topics: · SHRM’s controversial move from DEI to “I&D” and what it really means· How leadership values shape (and sometimes distort) workplace culture· The impact of politics and performative allyship on HR credibility· Why data and empathy must coexist in equitable workplaces· Practical ways HR pros and employees can take action locallyNotes: Guest:Tara Turk-Haynes — Strategist, storyteller, and equity activator; founder of Equity Activations; featured in Fast Company and Harvard Business Review; known for blending strategy, creativity, and inclusion to build sustainable change.

    50 min
  8. CMCL Interview: Chris Ruden

    08/26/2025 ·  Video

    CMCL Interview: Chris Ruden

    In this episode of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, Julie Sowash welcomes Chris Ruden, a world record-holding powerlifter, motivational speaker, inclusion advocate, and finalist on NBC’s Titan Games. Born with a disability and later diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, Chris shares how years of hiding his hand shaped his understanding of self-acceptance, resilience, and ultimately, his purpose. Julie and Chris delve into the complexities of psychological safety at work, examining why it cannot be reduced to a simple yes-or-no question and how leaders can foster cultures of trust and belonging through consistency, active listening, and authenticity. Chris also discusses the impact of internalized ableism, offering candid insight into his own journey from self-doubt to empowerment, and the pivotal moments that helped him stop hiding and step fully into his identity. Together, they examine the difference between showing up for employees versus speaking on their behalf, the risks companies take when retreating from diversity and inclusion commitments, and why the future of work must be human-centered. This conversation is both deeply personal and broadly practical, offering lessons for leaders, allies, and anyone striving to create a world where people are valued for who they are—not just what they have.What We Talk About: The meaning of psychological safety at work and why it’s not a simple yes/no answer. The impact of internalized ableism and how to overcome it. Why trust, listening, and curiosity are the foundation of true inclusion. What companies risk when they retreat from DEI—and how authentic leadership can rebuild trust.Notes:  Chris Ruden is an internationally recognized speaker and disability advocate who helps organizations build cultures of inclusion, resilience, and belonging. Born with a congenital disability and later diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, Chris turned years of hiding into a mission of empowerment, challenging audiences to rethink bias and embrace change. Visit ChrisRuben.com for more.  Changing Minds & Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions, a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies.

    39 min
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About

Julie Sowash of Disability Solutions talks with clients, friends, influencers, and advocates from the disability community to discuss the complexities, difficulties, and successes of disability employment.  In this honest and very human podcast, we analyze and dissect workplace trends, government policies, biases, and more, shedding light on disability inclusion and the people who are changing minds and changing lives. 

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